French Martini (or French Martini) is an alcoholic cocktail based on vodka with a strength of 17-18% vol. with distinct fruity notes and moderate sweetness on the palate. It is considered an aperitif – a drink served before a meal for appetite.
Historical information
The author of the French Martini recipe is not exactly known. Presumably, the cocktail appeared in the early 1980s in one of the bars in New York. There have been versions that the company that owns Chambord liqueur developed the recipe, but there is no documentary evidence for this. According to another version, the drink was invented by Allan Katz, but it is not known who this person was and where he worked.
The French Martini was popularized by Balthazar McNally, who included the cocktail in the drink list of his bar located in New York’s Soho. SoHo or South of Houston Street (translated as south of Houston Street) is a popular tourist area in New York, where many boutiques, cafes and restaurants are located. In the 80s of the XX century it was a gathering place for the artistic elite of the city, galleries and exhibitions were located here.
The French Martini cocktail is not related to vermouth and the Italian brand of spirits of the same name, and got its name only because it is served in a cocktail glass, which is also called a martini glass. And “French” is a reference to Chambord, a raspberry liqueur made in France.
The French Martini is listed by the International Bartenders Association (IBA) in the New Era Drinks category.
French martini recipe
Composition and proportions:
- vodka – 45 ml;
- raspberry liqueur (Chambord or other) – 15 ml;
- pineapple juice – 15 ml;
- ice cubes;
- lemon zest, raspberries or blackberries – for decoration.
There are two versions of the French Martini: based on any raspberry liqueur (IBA recommendation) and Chambord only (considered the most popular variety promoted by popular bars). In the first case, the cocktail turns out to be richer and sweeter, in the second – slightly watery, almost not sweet and lighter.
Chambord is a French liqueur with a strength of 16.5% by volume, made from raspberries and blackberries.
Technology of preparation
1. Fill the shaker with ice. Separately cool the glass for serving – a cocktail glass (martini glass).
2. Add vodka, raspberry liqueur and pineapple juice.
3. Shake. Pour into a serving glass.
4. Garnish the finished cocktail with a raspberry or blackberry (you can also use lemon zest). Serve without a straw.
